When there is low snowfall in the forecast for Fernie Alpine Resort, you’ll see frequent Fernie skiers shrug and say: “The Fernie Factor will bring it!”

The Fernie Factor is the unique combination of Fernie’s microclimate, altitude, and its location just west of the Continental Divide where cold Arctic winds collide with moist winds from the Pacific.

It’s a phenomenon that unpredictably and regularly brings large amounts of fresh powder overnight to Fernie Alpine Resort when the forecast is for flurries.

The most extreme example of this came in January this year when 9cms forecast snow turned into 94cm in 18 hours!

That’s why a number of businesses in Fernie have a 20cm powder day rule in their employment contracts – if there is more than 20cm fresh snow in the snow report, their staff don’t have to come to work until noon.

The snow that the resort has received this week is a great example of why the Fernie Factor is so revered by skiers.

As well as bringing more snow every night than was forecast, there was enough wind each day to gather fresh snow in deep pockets at the edge of each run, giving the powder day experience all week.

By midweek there was even some sunshine for lucky skiers in Fernie for their family week ski vacation.

And it’s still falling – over 5cm of light, dry powder fell on Friday morning, and there is more forecast for this weekend.

Fernie lodging specials

Experience the Fernie Factor for yourself every vacation!

Quarter and full share ownerships are now available at Juniper Lodge and Polar Peak Lodges, Fernie Alpine Resort.